Just starting the process

JLM · January 17, 2008

Hello,

I just have made the decision to have lapband surgery or gastric bypass I flip flop between the two each day. I just started the entire process with my insurance and start the classes so I'm a total newbie to all of this stuff. I have a question since I am leaning toward lapband and I know the weight loss may be slower but have you ever hoped you had done the bypass instead of the lapband?

Everyone looks so amazing and I know ultimately I have to make the decision I'm just curious.

Thank you~

coolcrystal · January 17, 2008

I've known people who have had both.

And, I'm going to tell you right now, the people who've had the lapband were always satisfied with it and healthy.. the ones who had the bypass surgery hated it, were sick all the time and suffered issues from having it. I can't tell you either way to go, only what I have been told. The lap band does have maintence, ie, fills, but, in the long run, the bypass friends have either gained their weight back and are suffering serious issues or are still slim, and suffering with issues.

juliegeraci · January 17, 2008

JLM. Let me tell you what my surgeon said. He said the stats at 3 years are 62% of your excess weight for both the lapband and bypass. These are studies that are given to the surgeons at their conferences. While bipass initially is 90%, come year 3 it is the same as lapband. That being said, the bipass weight loss is a lot faster. If you eat 800-1k calories a day as a bandster and work your tail off you can lose a lot fast. I've seen some people lose 100 fairly quickly. But I know they work out a lot. Congrats on your decision. I am very happy with mine.

jamd · January 17, 2008

I'm just starting the process as well. I have my consultation tomorrow morning and I'm very nervous and excited at the same time. I have so many questions for the doctor with my biggest one being will my insurance company approve the surgery. :tt1: